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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.